A Landmark Event in Health Research
In a significant development for health research in Asia, Union Minister Jitendra Singh inaugurated the continent’s first health research-related “Pre-clinical Network Facility.” Under the aegis of the Translational Health Science & Technology Institute (THSTI), this cutting-edge facility is part of the Coalition of Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) at the Regional Centre of Biotechnology in Faridabad. This inauguration marks a new era in the region’s ability to handle advanced medical research and epidemic preparedness.
Global Network of Pre-Clinical Laboratories
The new pre-clinical network laboratory is a testament to India’s growing prominence in global health research. Selected by CEPI based on its capability to handle BSL3 pathogens, the BRIC-THSTI laboratory becomes the ninth such network laboratory globally, and the first in Asia. The other eight laboratories are across the USA, Europe, and Australia. This facility boasts one of the largest small animal facilities in India, with a housing capacity of about 75,000 mice, including immune-compromised mice, and other species such as rats, rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs.
Genetically Defined Human Associated Microbial Culture Collection (Ge-HuMic) Facility
In addition to the pre-clinical network facility, Minister Jitendra Singh also inaugurated the “Genetically Defined Human Associated Microbial Culture Collection (Ge-HuMic) Facility.” This facility will act as a repository, providing microbial cultures to research institutes, universities, and industries for research and development. It aims to foster national and international collaborations between academic institutions, hospitals, and industry, further cementing India’s role in global health research.
Advancing Vaccine Development and Research
The Translational Health Science and Technology Institute (THSTI), an institute under the Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council (BRIC), Department of Biotechnology, is pivotal in advancing vaccine development and research. The institute has facilitated numerous agreements and MoUs with the private sector for vaccine development and research into diseases such as the Nipah virus, Influenza, and other respiratory illnesses. The newly inaugurated facilities will support innovative and cutting-edge research, including the testing of drug and vaccine candidates, identifying biomarkers of disease progression, and fostering interdisciplinary research collaborations.

A Vision for the Future
Speaking at the 14th Foundation Day of THSTI, Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted the institute’s remarkable journey since its inception. He paid tribute to Dr. M.K Bhan for his foundational efforts in establishing the facility. Reflecting on the institute’s achievements, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Singh underscored the importance of such research facilities in addressing global health challenges. He praised the Department of Biotechnology for its progress despite limited resources and assured support for further infrastructure development.
Conclusion
The inauguration of Asia’s first pre-clinical network facility and the Ge-HuMic Facility represents a monumental step forward in health research. These facilities are poised to enhance India’s capacity for high-quality research, support global health initiatives, and foster collaborations across various sectors. As India continues to make strides in medical research and innovation, these new facilities will play a crucial role in shaping the future of healthcare both nationally and globally.
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